The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber gathered an enthusiastic crowd of over 600 attendees at the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center Grand Upton Hall to celebrate the region’s top small businesses, organizations, and individuals at its annual Business Recognition Awards ceremony. The event featured a keynote speech by renowned motivational speaker Drew Dudley and a recap of the Chamber’s achievements in 2024.
BEST NEW BUSINESS AWARD: THE LAB. MARTIAL ARTS & FITNESS
Recognized for excellence in martial arts instruction and fitness training, The Lab. Martial Arts & Fitness has established itself as a leading facility in Southwest Michigan. The gym offers expert coaching in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, kickboxing, wrestling, and fitness, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all skill levels. The Lab. empowers individuals through discipline, fitness, and personal growth.
SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD: VILLWOCKS OUTDOOR LIVING
Villwocks Outdoor Living was honored for its comprehensive services in outdoor living. The multi-faceted provider includes two garden centers, outdoor power equipment sales, and a range of landscaping services like design, installation, and maintenance. In addition to these offerings, Villwocks manages pools and spas, landscape lighting, and provides property services like spring cleanup and mowing. Known as a one-stop shop for outdoor solutions, Villwocks Outdoor Living ensures homeowners’ satisfaction.
ECONOMIC IMPACT AWARD: HONOR CREDIT UNION
Honor Credit Union received the Economic Impact Award for its commitment to financial success and community empowerment. Since its founding in 1934, Honor has expanded to serve 110,000 members across Western and Northern Michigan, with 28 branch locations. The credit union remains a trusted partner for individuals, families, and businesses, fostering financial well-being and contributing to local economies.
NON-PROFIT EXCELLENCE AWARD: HARBOR COUNTRY MISSION
Harbor Country Mission (HCM) was awarded for its 24/7 support of individuals and families in need. Operating year-round, HCM provides essential services such as food, clothing, household items, furniture, appliances, and pet supplies. HCM’s dedication ensures that none in Southwest Michigan go without necessary resources.
COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD: BERRIEN COUNTY– SILVER BEACH PARK PLAYGROUND PROJECT
The Silver Beach County Park Playground Project received the Community Impact Award for modernizing a 30-year-old playground. Funded as a National Demonstration Site by Playcore, this project aims to enhance park usage and accommodate diverse needs, making play enjoyable for everyone.
RISING STAR AWARD: SARAH LANCASTER, SOUTH SHORE HEALTH & RACQUET CLUB
Sarah Lancaster, General Manager of South Shore Health & Racquet Club, received the Rising Star Award. Lancaster, a business administration and history graduate, brings dynamic leadership to the club’s mission of promoting wellness through health programs and high-quality facilities. Her involvement in the Women’s Service League, co-chairing Operation Coats, and coaching Saint Joseph High School’s girls varsity tennis team showcases her dedication to the community.
THE PAT MOODY AWARD: MICHELLE HEIT, NEW BUFFALO TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR
Michele Heit, New Buffalo Township Supervisor since 2016, received the Pat Moody Award for her visionary leadership. Heit’s initiatives, including the Marquette Greenway, Red Arrow Highway Linear Park, and township’s public safety building, have positively impacted local communities. Heit is also involved in boards for Medic 1 Ambulance and the Galien River Sanitary District. Her commitment to both public service and her community is evident in her many roles.
AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR: LEANNE BROWNFIELD, STURGIS BANK & TRUST
Leanne Brownfield, Assistant Vice President at Sturgis Bank, was awarded Ambassador of the Year for her decade-long service in community banking. Brownfield’s involvement in business, municipal, and private banking demonstrates her passion for customers and community service. Her commitment to Southwest Michigan shines through her volunteer efforts and dedication to raising her family in the area.
Keynote Speaker: Drew Dudley
Internationally acclaimed TED Talk speaker and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Drew Dudley returned as the keynote speaker, urging the audience to recognize the impact of everyday contributions to the community. His inspiring speech emphasized the value of personal connections and services that make the world a better place.
Chamber’s 2024 Achievements
The Chamber marked its 70th anniversary with the launch of two new 501(c)3 organizations and reintroduced ActionLine, its quarterly news publication. President & CEO Arthur Havlicek expressed pride in these accomplishments and the growth of the Chamber, including four new staff members added since March.
The full list of nominees and award recipients can be found at www.smrchamber.com.
We invite you to celebrate the success stories of Southwest Michigan. Visit the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber to learn more about how you can get involved in supporting small businesses and community development.
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